TheCMT Music Awardsain’t over ‘tilKenny Chesneysings!
“When I realized the CMT Music Awards were happening next week, I asked if they could find space for us to debut this band, to play one of those songs that defined what we do live all those years ago — and they said, ‘C’mon,'” Chesney said in a statement.
The “American Kids” singer has been getting ready for when his Here And Now 2022 tour kicks off later this month, and said he’s looking forward to the opportunity to introduce two new band members: drummer Nick Buda and guitarist Danny Rader.
“You just know when something’s white hot. I can’t wait for people to see where this band is,” he said. “It’s always great to be able to close down the night! For us, to be part of what will change people’s lives, to show what’s possible and to celebrate how rocking the music is? That’s why we do what we do.”
Kenny Chesney.Cindy Ord/Getty
The performance marks Chesney’s first at the CMT Awards in seven years.
Chesney — who hasn’t toured since 2019 — won his first CMT Music Award in 2002, and his collaboration withKelsea Ballerini,“half of my hometown,“is up for video of the year and collaborative video of the year.
Ballerini isset to co-hostthe fan-voted show withAnthony Mackie, and she’ll also perform her new single “Heartfirst.”
Joining her and Chesney on stage for performances areMickey GuytonandBlack Pumas,Old Dominion,Carrie Underwood,Kane Brown,Cody Johnson,Miranda Lambert,Little Big Town,Maren MorrisandRyan Hurd,Carly Pearce,Cole Swindell,Lainey Wilson,Keith UrbanandThe Judds, who will reunite for their first televised performance in 20 years.
Priscilla Block,BRELAND, Jessie James Decker,Parker McCollum,Elvie ShaneandCaitlyn Smithwill also perform from the Ram Trucks Side Stage.
The 2022 CMT Awards will air live from Nashville on CBS on April 11 at 8 p.m. ET.
source: people.com
